We can take a huge step forward this weekend towards safety and I would imagine Rafa knows that and, therefore, so do the players.
I`ve been of the opinion this year that, despite perhaps not having the additions we would have liked, we`ve had a better team than at least three of the sides in the division and, by far, one of the better managers in the league.
And, with that said, we face one of those worse outfits this weekend.
West Brom are not as good as us, I think Huddersfield and Stoke are short, too, and, for sure, Southampton are lacking the quality and managerial prowess we`ve got.
That`s why, then, when we face them this weekend we need to try and make a statement and get a huge three points in the battle to beat the drop.
We`ve seen on plenty of occasions this year that Rafa likes to be compact and hard to beat and that has kept us more than on the pace of those around us.
Fair play to him, then, despite some of the criticism certain pundits have fired his way but, if he doesn`t let the lads off the leash this weekend some negative press will be warranted.
I`ve seen puppies more threatening than Southampton this season they are that toothless.
To keep things stringent and tight in this one, then, would only lead to a 0-0 and, whilst I`m not saying let`s be completely cavalier, I want Rafa to be a bit more adventurous.
I`m sure a number of the players have been itching for more chances to express their ability going forward and this fixture strikes me as a perfect opportunity to do that.
Rafa has always been of the opinion there`s a time and a place to go attacking and, for me, that time is now.
Agree with me? Or should Rafa stick to compactness? Let me know!
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